SALT LAKE CITY  — The Department of Defense has identified the soldier killed in Syria earlier this week during a reconnaissance mission accident as 25-year-old Sgt. Bryan Cooper Mount, of St. George, Utah.

The department says  Mount was assigned to 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, based in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He was in Syria supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the US-led military coalition fighting ISIS.

The Army says he died from injuries sustained after his Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicle rolled while conducting reconnaissance operations in Syria on Tuesday. The DOD said that the incident is under investigation.

“Bryan was an incredible Paratrooper and those who served with him will mourn his loss,” Lt. Col. Val Moro, commander of 1-73 CAV told ABC11. 

“He had the unique ability to make everyone laugh no matter who they were or how you were feeling. His Paratroopers looked up to him. His care-free, easygoing personality made him approachable and well-loved. If you had a problem, you could count on Bryan to help. His passing is a tragedy and our prayers are with his family, friends, and those who served alongside him.”

“Sergeant Bryan ‘Cooper’ Mount was a true American hero Paratrooper who served honorably and gave his life defending his fellow citizens and our Nation,” said Maj. Gen. Christopher Donahue, the 82nd Airborne Division commanding general.

“Cooper was a three-time volunteer on his second combat deployment and his loss will be deeply felt across our entire formation. He was a husband, son, brother and leader who was adored by everyone who knew him. Our sole focus now is providing unyielding support to Cooper’s family. Our hearts are with his wife, his parents, his extended family and fellow Paratroopers as they grieve through this incredibly tough time.”

 

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